Law enforcement, administration, trading, technology and other key areas were directly managed by the French. Locals, who were well-trained and could speak the French language, were allowed to hold subordinate positions but not key administrative positions. Native leaders were allowed to manage their people according to local customs. The education system included learning the French language and French traditions.

The British method for managing its West African colonies was one of indirect colonial management. It was the very opposite of the French method. The British ruled these colonies through native leaders.